The Collectif petite enfance and our member organizations represent thousands of early childhood development advocates who are determined to make this issue a priority for Quebec.
We are committed to taking the lead on various matters central to the future and well-being of young children across the province, from the womb through to preschool years.
The following are the pillars of our commitment, and the commitment of our partners, as we strive to achieve these goals :
- Raise awareness at every level of society about the benefits and outcomes of taking collective action in the early years of a child’s life.
- Engage people at every level of society and emphasize the importance of early intervention.
What drives us to make a difference, together
Social inequalities in Quebec have many tangible impacts on society as a whole, and young children in particular. Young children are the adults of the future. It is essential to give them the best possible start in life and an equal chance to thrive, while taking into account each child’s unique strengths and the diverse experiences to which they are exposed.
Making early childhood development a social priority is a concrete investment in building a more just, more dynamic, more enlightened and more prosperous society. Globally, societies that invest in children and families in the early years have the best health status and the smallest inequality gap in this regard.
As we are grappling with the pandemic, environmental disruptions, diversity and inclusion issues, and more, it is paramount to reassert the importance of putting early childhood development front and centre, now and for generations to come.
Takeover of the agirtot.org site
When it was announced Avenir d’enfants would be coming to an end in June 2020, the Collectif petite enfance decided to take over the agirtot.org web platform, created and developed by Avenir d’enfants to liaise with early childhood development partners over the past decade. The rich and highly relevant content resulting from the experience of this key stakeholders was something that needed to survive beyond the project.
Our team
Élise Bonneville
Director, Collectif petite enfance
Elise has worked in perinatal and early childhood development for over 10 years. She is a passionate advocate for young children, committed to putting her education and experience to good…
Elise has worked in perinatal and early childhood development for over 10 years. She is a passionate advocate for young children, committed to putting her education and experience to good use to make the health and well-being of our littlest citizens a true social priority.
Armed with extensive expertise in consensus-building and project management in community and public-sector healthcare settings, Elise has made a significant contribution to a number of collaborative projects aimed at this segment of the population, including the creation of the first birthing centre in the CIUSSS/CISSS network.
“I firmly believe that investing in prevention during the first years of life and working together as a unified team are the solutions we need to ensure equal opportunities.” — Elise Bonneville
Guylaine Desbiens
Liaison and Coordination Officer, Collectif petite enfance
Guylaine feels honoured to be able to contribute to social change through the Collectif petite enfance. With 25 years of experience working with families and key players in early childhood…
Guylaine feels honoured to be able to contribute to social change through the Collectif petite enfance. With 25 years of experience working with families and key players in early childhood development in Quebec, she brings invaluable knowledge and know-how to the table.
Her collaborative nature, responsiveness and respect for individual differences are apparent in all her interactions with others. She is convinced that earlier is better when it comes to supporting babies, toddlers and preschoolers, and that our actions today are vital to their future well-being.
“Every young child is a promise of infinite possibilities. By supporting all children right from the start, we can build a better world for everyone.” — Guylaine Desbiens
Catherine Blain
Coordinator
Catherine’s strong communication and management skills are key to juggling multiple projects and teams, while remaining attentive to the specific needs of individuals and groups alike. With insight, sensitivity and…
Catherine’s strong communication and management skills are key to juggling multiple projects and teams, while remaining attentive to the specific needs of individuals and groups alike. With insight, sensitivity and empathy, she creates a supportive and safe environment for her colleagues and partners. She is goal-driven, action-oriented and resolved to implement effective, long-term solutions.
Catherine feels privileged to be able to speak up on behalf of young children and help create a world where they can thrive. In so doing, she hopes to foster conditions that are conducive to a healthy and happy childhood for all. She is determined to continue promoting the values of well-being, equity and security to make a lasting impact in the community.
“Our youngest represent the future; they deserve our undivided attention. Let’s work together to ensure that they can realize their full potential!” — Catherine Blain
Jeanne Beauchamp
Jeanne is an experienced communications professional, whose integrity, creativity and vision have been indispensable in furthering various social causes during the course of her career.
Jeanne is committed to tapping…
Jeanne is an experienced communications professional, whose integrity, creativity and vision have been indispensable in furthering various social causes during the course of her career.
Jeanne is committed to tapping into the expertise she has acquired over the years to help the Collectif petite enfance drive meaningful social impact. Her considerable communications skills enable her to play an important role in promoting the organization’s vision and advocacy efforts.
“My commitment to the Collectif petite enfance stems from the conviction that collective action matters and can make a real difference. Investing in early childhood is a powerful way to prevent difficulties down the road and work toward a more just and equitable future for all.” — Jeanne Beauchamp